Growing New Farmers Program

The Growing New Farmers Program provides introductory level classroom and hands-on training in farm production and business planning. We offer optional apprenticeship placement with a mentor farmer that provides extended job-based training proven to be invaluable when venturing in to the world of small to mid-sized sustainable agriculture. Since 2011 we have trained over 130 new farmers and food systems leaders in the Lowcountry and look forward to growing our resilient local food system with you.

Lowcountry Local First closed the window for applications for the 2016 Growing New Farmers Program on March 15, 2016. Selected participants will explore their interest in agriculture as they receive 6 months of experiential, hands-on learning in the field and curriculum-based instruction in a traditional classroom setting. All participants will experience introductory-level training including coursework, field trips, workshops, and regular field days on the 1-acre teaching plot within Dirt Works Incubator Farm. Qualified applicants are provided the opportunity to be matched with a local farmer for an apprenticeship placement to gain hands-on experience relevant to their interests. Participants will receive a minimum of 350 training hours (up to 550 with apprenticeship) and receive a Certificate in Sustainable Agriculture and Continuing Education Units from the College of Charleston through the JobBridge program.

Program dates: May 16th – November 12, 2016 (includes a break during August)